How to Catch Kingfish around Melbourne & Victoria

Kingfish are a popular game fish found in the waters around Melbourne and Victoria. They are known for their strong fighting ability and can grow to a large size, with some individuals weighing over 20 kilograms. Kingfish are typically found in the ocean and can be found near structures such as reefs, piers, and jetties. They are also commonly found in bays and estuaries, especially during the warmer months.

There are several different techniques that can be used to catch kingfish. One common method is to use a rod and reel with live or artificial bait. Live bait, such as pilchards or worms, can be effective in attracting kingfish. Artificial lures, such as jigs or soft plastics, can also be effective in catching kingfish. Handlining and trolling from a boat are other methods that can be used to catch kingfish. When trolling, a boat is driven slowly through the water with a line and lure or bait behind it.

Also Read: How to catch snapper | Snapper Fishing Tips

It is important to be aware of local fishing regulations and to obtain the necessary licenses before attempting to catch kingfish. In Victoria, recreational fishing licenses are required for anyone over the age of 18 and can be obtained from the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions. It is also important to practice safe and responsible fishing, including the proper handling and release of any fish that are caught. This includes using proper fishing gear and handling the fish gently to reduce the risk of injury.

Also Read: How to catch flathead with lures, soft plastics and bait

In addition to being a popular recreational activity, fishing for kingfish can also provide a source of food. Kingfish are a good source of protein and are often used in a variety of dishes, such as sashimi, sushi, and grilled fillets. When preparing kingfish, it is important to handle and store it properly to ensure it is safe to eat. This includes properly cleaning and filleting the fish and storing it in the refrigerator or freezer until it is ready to be cooked.

Kingfish Facts & Catch Limits

Kingfish are typically found in the ocean and can be found near structures such as reefs, piers, and jetties.
They are also commonly found in bays and estuaries, especially during the warmer months.
The color of a kingfish can range from silver to blue-green and they have a distinctive pattern of black spots on their lower sides.
Kingfish have a strong, muscular body and a large, triangular head with a sharp, pointed jaw.
They are predatory fish and are known to feed on a variety of smaller fish and invertebrates.
In addition to being a popular recreational fish, kingfish are also important to commercial fisheries in Victoria and are often sold for their meat.
Recreational fishermen should be aware of the size and bag limits for kingfish in their area and release any fish that are below the minimum size or exceed the bag limit.
Kingfish can be found in a variety of habitats, including shallow coastal waters and deeper offshore areas. They are most commonly caught in the warmer months, but can be caught year-round in some areas.

Best time to catch Kingfish ( Seasons )

The best time to catch kingfish in Melbourne and Victoria can vary depending on a number of factors, including the location, water temperature, and weather conditions. In general, kingfish are most active during the warmer months of the year, from late summer to early autumn. During this time, the water is typically warmer, which can make the fish more active and easier to catch.

In Victoria, kingfish are typically found in the ocean and can be found near structures such as reefs, piers, and jetties. They are also commonly found in bays and estuaries, especially during the warmer months. The best time to catch kingfish in these areas will depend on the specific location and the conditions at the time. For example, some areas may be more productive during the morning, while others may be more productive in the afternoon.

It is important to pay attention to the weather and water conditions when fishing for kingfish. Windy or rough conditions can make it more difficult to catch the fish, while calm and sunny conditions can be more favorable. It is also important to be aware of any local fishing regulations, including seasonal closures and catch limits, which can vary depending on the location and the type of fishing being done.

How to catch Kingfish

Kingfish can be caught using a variety of techniques, including rod and reel, handlining, and trolling. Each method has its own advantages and can be effective in catching kingfish depending on the specific conditions and the preferences of the fisherman.

To catch kingfish using a rod and reel, you will need a sturdy rod and a reel with a good drag system. Live or artificial bait can be used, such as pilchards, worms, or lures. When using live bait, it is important to keep the bait fresh and to present it in a natural manner to attract the fish. Artificial lures, such as jigs or soft plastics, can be effective in catching kingfish, especially in areas where live bait is not readily available.

Handlining is a technique that involves using a line with a bait or lure attached to it and holding the line by hand. This method can be effective in catching kingfish, especially in areas with a lot of structure or in shallow water.

Trolling is a method that involves dragging a bait or lure behind a boat as it moves through the water. Trolling can be an effective way to catch kingfish, especially in deeper water or when covering a large area.

Land-based King fish options

The Docklands, Williamstown, and Port Melbourne areas offer a variety of options for land-based kingfish fishing.

In the Docklands area, the NewQuay promenade and pier is a popular spot for fishing. The pier provides access to deeper water and can be a good place to find kingfish. Live or artificial bait can be used, and a sturdy rod and reel with a good drag system is recommended. It is important to pay attention to the tides and to be aware of any local fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits.

Williamstown also has several options for land-based kingfish fishing. The Williamstown Pier is a popular spot, as is the beach at Gem Pier. Live or artificial bait can be used, and a sturdy rod and reel with a good drag system is recommended. It is important to pay attention to the tides and to be aware of any local fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits.

In the Port Melbourne area, the beach at Station Pier is a popular spot for land-based kingfish fishing. Live or artificial bait can be used, and a sturdy rod and reel with a good drag system is recommended. It is important to pay attention to the tides and to be aware of any local fishing regulations, such as size and bag limits.

Catching Kingfish with bait

Catching kingfish with bait is a popular and effective technique for recreational fishermen. Live bait, such as pilchards or worms, can be effective in attracting kingfish, as it simulates the natural prey of the fish. Artificial bait, such as jigs or soft plastics, can also be effective in catching kingfish, especially in areas where live bait is not readily available.

To catch kingfish with bait, you will need a sturdy rod and reel with a good drag system. The type of bait you choose will depend on the specific conditions and the preferences of the fisherman. Live bait can be obtained from a bait shop or caught using a net or bait trap. Artificial bait, such as lures, can be purchased from a fishing tackle shop.

When using live bait, it is important to keep the bait fresh and to present it in a natural manner to attract the fish. This can be done by attaching the bait to a hook or by using a bait rig. A bait rig is a device that holds the bait in place and allows it to move freely, simulating the natural movement of prey.

Artificial bait, such as lures or jigs, can be presented in a variety of ways to mimic the movement of live bait. It is important to pay attention to the specific techniques and techniques for using artificial bait, as they can vary depending on the type of bait being used and the conditions. Recommended options include-

Pilchards
Worms
Sardines
Squid
Cut bait
Live shrimp
Live crabs
Live minnows
Live crayfish
Live herring

Catching Targeting kingies with lures & soft plastics

Catching kingfish with lures and soft plastics is a popular and effective technique for recreational fishermen. Lures, such as jigs and plugs, mimic the movement of live bait and can be effective in attracting kingfish. Soft plastics, such as worms or grubs, are artificial lures made of a soft, pliable material that can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be used alone or in combination with live or cut bait.

To catch kingfish with lures and soft plastics, you will need a sturdy rod and reel with a good drag system. The type of lure or soft plastic you choose will depend on the specific conditions and the preferences of the fisherman. Lures and soft plastics can be purchased from a fishing tackle shop or online.

When using lures, it is important to pay attention to the specific techniques and techniques for using them, as they can vary depending on the type of lure being used and the conditions. This can include the speed at which the lure is retrieved, the depth at which it is fished, and the type of retrieve used.

Soft plastics can be presented in a variety of ways to mimic the movement of live bait. They can be rigged on a hook or jighead and retrieved slowly or more aggressively, depending on the specific technique being used.

Here are 10 lure and soft plastic options for catching kingfish-

Jigs
Plugs
Spoons
Poppers
Stickbaits
Swimbait
Crankbaits
Soft plastic worms
Soft plastic grubs
Soft plastic craws

Kingfish fishing rod reel and rig setup

Set up a rod and reel for kingfish fishing, you will need a sturdy rod with a fast or extra-fast action and a reel with a good drag system. The size and type of rod and reel you choose will depend on the specific conditions and the size of the fish you are targeting.

For most kingfish fishing, a rod with a length of 7 to 8 feet and a line rating of 20 to 30 pounds is suitable. A baitcasting or spinning reel with a capacity of at least 200 yards of line is recommended.

To rig the rod and reel, you will need to attach a leader line to the main line using a knot such as a double or triple surgeon’s knot. The leader should be made of a stronger and more abrasion-resistant material, such as fluorocarbon or wire, and should be at least as long as the rod.

Next, attach the bait or lure to the leader using a hook or jighead. The size and type of hook or jighead will depend on the size and type of bait or lure being used.

Kingfish HOTSPOTS around Melbourne and Victoria

Some hotspots around Victoria for Kingies include

The Rip ( PPB entrance )
Portland
Western Port ( Seasonally they will come in )
Barwon Heads
Black Rock
Port Welshpool
Port Fairy
Mallacoota
Wilsons prom
Narooma
Docklands
Williamstown
Mornington
Port Melbourne

I hope the information provided has been helpful in your pursuit of kingfish fishing. Whether you are an experienced angler or just starting out, there is always something new to learn and discover. Happy fishing!